As we at Millbank observe World Mental Health Day 2024, we're taking this opportunity to reflect on the crucial role that workplaces play in supporting mental health. With many of us spending a significant portion of our lives at work, we believe that companies have a unique opportunity—and responsibility—to prioritise the mental wellbeing of their employees.
Historically, mental health has been a sensitive subject, particularly in professional settings. At Millbank, we're committed to changing this narrative. We encourage our employees to view mental health as an integral part of overall health, deserving the same attention and care as physical wellbeing.
At Millbank, we've implemented a comprehensive approach to mental health support. We'd like to share our strategy as an example of how organisations can prioritise employee wellbeing.
We offer our employees access to a suite of health services that go beyond traditional benefits. This includes:
- 24/7 access to medical professionals via video or phone call
- Expert second opinions on medical conditions
- Mental health support with quick assessment turnarounds
- Wellbeing services
- Nutrition advice and meal planning
By providing these services, we ensure that our employees have round-the-clock access to healthcare support, reducing stress and promoting overall wellbeing.
Another cornerstone of our mental health strategy is our robust Employee Assistance Program. This confidential service offers:
- Counselling support
- Legal advice
- Financial guidance
- Family-related assistance
- Support for older relatives
- Addiction help
- Work-related issue resolution
We believe such comprehensive programs demonstrate our commitment to supporting employees through various life challenges that can impact mental health.
We've also gone a step further at Millbank. We have Karen in HR, who is now our Qualified Level 2 First Aid for Mental Health Advisor. Karen provides an additional layer of support and serves as a point of contact for employees seeking guidance on mental health resources.
Our investment in mental health resources has yielded significant benefits. We've seen increased productivity and job satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and improved employee retention. Most importantly, it has fostered a more positive and supportive work environment where open discussions about mental health are the norm. This approach has not only benefited our current employees but has also enhanced our reputation, helping us attract top talent who value a workplace that prioritises mental wellbeing.
While every organisation's journey is unique, we encourage all companies to prioritise mental health. Consider implementing mental health awareness training, offering flexible working arrangements, and creating open channels for discussing mental health concerns. Partnering with local mental health organisations can provide additional resources. Remember, the key is to start the conversation and demonstrate a genuine commitment to your employees' mental wellbeing. Even small steps can lead to significant positive changes in your workplace culture.
As we observe World Mental Health Day, we at Millbank recognise the vital role that workplaces play in supporting mental health. We're proud of the steps we've taken, but we also know that this is an ongoing journey. We're committed to continually improving our mental health support and sharing our experiences with others.
We encourage all organisations to join us in prioritising workplace mental health. Remember, it's not just good for employees—it's good for business. Let's work together to create a world where everyone feels valued, heard, and empowered to prioritise their wellbeing.
